The Harlandale Independent School District Board of Trustees approved the 2019-20 general fund-operating budget of almost $152 million at their special call meeting on June 24. The new budget includes funds for a 4 to 6 percent increase for teachers and librarians based on salary and years of experience, as well as a 4 percent increase of the pay range midpoint for the remaining personnel including counselors and nurses.

“The raises for our teachers and personnel are an important part of our district’s pledge to compensate our educators who are in the classroom vigorously working to help our students attain academic success,” said Superintendent Rey Madrigal. “All our employees are vital to the success of our students and worthy of the approved raises.”

Under the 2019-20 approved budget, teachers will receive a 4 percent increase based on salary for one to five years, a 5 percent increase for six to 15 years, and a 6 percent increase for 16 years and over. The starting teacher salary for Harlandale ISD for the 2019-20 school year is $54,150.

Pay raises for classroom teachers come in part as a result of the regular session of the 86th Legislature of House Bill 3 (HB3) funding, which included mandates for increased staff compensation and property tax relief.

The Harlandale ISD Total Budget for the 2019-20 school year considered by the Board was $169.4 million, which includes $152.2 million in the general fund and $17.2 in debt service.

The property tax relief under HB3 allowed the District to be able to compress its tax rate by close to 6 cents to $1.4989 from $1.5588 per $100 valuation.